PM Kobakhidze: US-Georgia ties can be rebuilt 'from a clean slate'

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has expressed optimism about the future of relations with the United States, saying recent contacts with representatives of the new US administration have created an opportunity to rebuild bilateral ties and restore the countries' strategic partnership.

Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Kobakhidze said the approach of the new administration differed significantly from that of its predecessor and provides grounds for a fresh start in relations between Tbilisi and Washington.

"It is very positive that the approach of the new US administration is qualitatively different from that of the previous administration," he said.

Kobakhidze added that recent discussions with US representatives had been constructive and indicated a willingness to review the framework of cooperation between the two countries.

"We had a first, very interesting meeting on specific issues and, of course, we are ready to continue this discussion," he said. "This gives us hope and grounds for optimism that we will be able to review our partnership and restore the strategic partnership from a clean slate, based on a concrete roadmap."

The PM argued that tensions in US-Georgia relations during recent years stemmed from “an unfair approach” by the previous US administration. He claimed that Washington had failed to respect Georgia's national interests and election results, while encouraging opposition actions that he characterised as attempts to undermine state institutions.

"Everything that deteriorated in Georgian-American relations over recent years was the result of an unfair approach by the previous administration," Kobakhidze said. "What was damaged through unfairness can only be repaired through the establishment of a fair approach."

He further noted that a renewed partnership should be based on respect for Georgia's national interests, democratic processes and the will of Georgian voters.

Commenting on an ongoing constitutional court case, Kobakhidze said all parties should respect legal procedures and avoid actions that could be perceived as interference in judicial processes.

"When we speak about fairness, respect for the rule of law is the starting point," he said. "Everyone should respect the legal process and legal procedures."